All Posts By

Roberta Emerson

Aug 20
0

Two Firsts for the Bankhead

By | LVPAC News | No Comments

We’re marking two major firsts this fall with our brand new production of the compelling Tony Award-winning play “Red” by John Logan. The two-man play captures a pivotal period in the tumultuous career of abstract expressionist painter Mark Rothko. This will be the FIRST show fully produced by Livermore Performing Arts Center and also the FIRST production at the Bankhead in a “stage on stage” setting.  Both the set and audience will be positioned directly on the stage.

While the Bankhead Theater has welcomed theatrical productions since it opened in 2007, most have been single performances of small-scale touring plays. More complex plays and musicals are difficult to mount for a single performance. In looking to add more theatrical productions, LVPAC’s Executive Director Scott Kenison found that a small “stage-on-stage” approach could be as cost effective as a touring show. For “Red,” the set and audience will be positioned between the fire curtain and the rear wall.  As Scott said, the raw, industrial sense of the space will help create an appropriate visual backdrop for Rothko’s New York Bowery studio and the intimate, stage-on-stage setting will enhance the emotional connection between the audience and the work’s dramatic action.

He initially discussed staging the project with other local organizations, however many are busy during their fall season. Bringing the project inside also provided other benefits, as Scott believes it is the nature of people involved in the creative arts to seek and be inspired by opportunities to broaden their horizons and use their skills. We’ve established a reputation for presenting great artists and for supporting local groups through our resident company program and educational outreach. Now with ‘Red’ we can build on that, leveraging the creative energy, production skills, and administrative strengths we already have in place to produce, as well as present, great works.

The project is underwritten in part by the LVPAC Producer’s Fund, which was established to support projects or guest artists that expand and stretch the organization’s artistic efforts. The natural connection between LVPAC’s involvement in both the performing arts and the visual arts, at the Bankhead Theater and at the Bothwell Arts Center, yields exciting opportunities to experience both.  On display in the Bankhead Gallery during “Red” will be “The Art of Drama,” an exhibit of works curated by the Bothwell that express the concept of drama as seen through the eyes of a variety of local artists. Look for other related events as well.

“Red” opens Thursday, October 18, 2018 for Five Performances

Click HERE to read more about the play

Or BUY tickets now!

Jul 17
0

We’re Going Green!

By | LVPAC News | No Comments

The “Green the Bankhead” project has been launched! Major initiatives to save energy and reduce costs will make the Bankhead Theater more efficient and environmentally-friendly. The goal is to achieve LEED certification, a globally-recognized rating of a commercial building’s sustainability, by 2019, as well as WELL certification, which assesses measures taken to ensure the health and well-being of patrons and staff.

One of the first changes will be to replace incandescent lightbulbs with LED lighting. They will both reduce energy costs and generate far less heat easing demand on the building’s cooling system. In addition, some of the new fixtures have multiple color LEDs making them more flexible so programming lighting design changes is easier and less labor intensive. Energy costs could be reduced as much as $10,000 inside the auditorium, and closer to twice that amount on stage, for a potential reduction in energy costs of between 20 and 30 percent overall. Other changes include installing solar panels, a project that has long been on our wish list for energy savings, as well as adding low-flow water fixtures, replacing worn carpet with more environmentally-friendly materials, and modifying offices and other spaces to make better use of natural light.

“A potential reduction in energy costs
of between 20 and 30 percent overall.”

David Doyle of Doyle Construction, who has been advising LVPAC on the project, says that while overall LEED certification has become more common locally and many new construction projects incorporate it, the newest version, LEED v4, is significantly more challenging to obtain. The Bankhead would be one of the first theaters in California to achieve the new, higher level of certification. To reach these goals, LVPAC will be working with an experienced team from the Folsom office of Glumac, a sustainable design company of over 45 years who also helped certify the Gerding Theater in Portland, Oregon.

“Green the Bankhead” will both enhance the building’s sustainability and, through significant cost reductions, help the organization be more financially sustainable as well. Initial project improvements do require investment and several generous donors have already stepped up to provide needed resources and funding. Over half of the projected $700,000 cost has already been secured.

Several generous donors have already stepped up to provide needed resources and funding; over half of the projected $700,000 cost has already been secured. According to Chris Carter, Director of Development, not all changes will be made at once. “We’re excited to get the project underway, but are being strategic in balancing the cost against the efforts that provide the greatest value,” he said. “The Bankhead Theater has been a welcoming home for the arts in the center of downtown for more than a decade. We’re grateful to be able to make these changes now to ensure it will continue to serve the community well for years to come.”

If you’re interested in helping to Green the Bankhead,
contact development@lvpac.org

 

 

Jul 05
0

Guitar Greats
at a Great Price

By | LVPAC News | No Comments

Don’t miss the rich and versatile sounds of the acoustic guitar at the Bankhead Theater this season!  Three separate performances certain to please guitar lovers start in September with the flamenco-inspired style of Ottmar Liebert and runs into 2019 with International Guitar Night in February hosted by Luca Stricagnoli and Wyndham Hill founder Will Ackerman’s “The Gathering 4 Guitars” in March.  Three great nights … nine great  guitarists!

Get your tickets to all three shows before September 15
and save 10% on the purchase.

Ottmar Liebert & Luna Negra:  Nouveau flamenco guitarist Ottmar Liebert is renowned worldwide for his innovative contemporary style incorporating musical influences from rock to reggae. He redefined the art form nearly three decades ago with his signature song “Barcelona Nights” off his double platinum debut album Nouveau Flamenco, which remains one of the best-selling guitar albums of all time. Since then his music has continued to evolve as he has explored different styles and rhythms, adding other instrumentation, but always staying centered on his intricate melodies. With 33 albums, half of which have gone Platinum, Liebert is considered one of the most successful instrumental artists in the world. His rich, sensual sound and relaxed, intimate performances continue to find enthusiastic audiences across all musical genres.  Saturday, September 15 at 8pm

“Music that moves the body while it touches the heart.” – Los Angeles Times

International Guitar Night:  After thrilling Bankhead audiences in 2017 with his showmanship, precision performance, and arrangements of heavy-metal songs, Italy’s innovative contemporary guitarist Luca Stricagnoli will return as host for International Guitar Night.  Founded by renowned Bay Area guitarist Brian Gore, IGN is now in its 18th year of touring. This unique and intimate annual event serves as a showcase for remarkable acoustic guitar talent from around the world. Joining Stricagnoli will be French Swing sensation Antoine Boyer, Flamenco master Samuelito, and Turkish fretless guitarist Cenk Erdogan. All four will present their latest works then perform together, sharing musical ideas through creative collaboration and exploring the diversity of the acoustic guitar world. Thursday, February 28 at 7:30pm

“These four talented musicians bring so much diversity and passion to each performance –
a treat for every acoustic guitar fan.” –Arizona Reporter

The Gathering 4 Guitars:  Grammy Award-winning music producer and guitarist Will Ackerman is universally recognized as the preeminent pioneer in new age music. He single-handedly fostered the careers of generations of acoustic guitarists and pianists through his ground-breaking work at Windham Hill Records. In this intimate evening of acoustic music, Ackerman will be joined by kalimbatar/guitarist Trevor Gordon Hall, Imrat guitar/guitarist Todd Mosby and acoustic guitar maestro Vin Downes, each of whom was selected by Ackerman for their superlative skills and creative compositions. The four unite at the end of the evening to create a concert of unrivaled beauty, intrigue, artistry and wonder. Thursday, March 28 at 7:30pm

“Taking the acoustic guitar into new directions, too, exploring deeply felt, richly individualistic paths
that are striking for their warmth, clarity, and vision.” – Acoustic Guitar

Buy Now! Put all three shows in your cart and
use discount code: GUITAR at check out.

Want to SAVE MORE? Become a member now and your benefits will double the discount. Join here and enjoy the discount and more.

Jul 05
0

Best of the East Bay!

By | LVPAC News | No Comments

We’re proud to announce that the Bankhead Theater was named Best of the East Bay: Performing Arts Venue by Diablo Magazine in their July Issue! Described as an acoustically perfect gem, the venue is honored for hosting the diverse Bankhead Presents series of musicians, dancers, acrobats, comedians and other artists, as well as our resident companies.

May 23
0

At the Bankhead!

By | Uncategorized | No Comments

A limited number of $20 seats are available for all shows*

 

2018-2019 BANKHEAD PRESENTS SEASON

 

Fri Sep 21 at 8pm  San Francisco Comedy Competition

Fri Oct 12 at 8pm  L.A. Theatre Works “Steel Magnolias”

Sun Oct 14 at 3pm  The New Chinese Acrobats

Thu – Sun  Oct 18-21 “Red” by John Logan

Thu Oct 25 at 7:30pm  Tom Papa

Fri Oct 26 at 8:00pm  Mustangs of the West

Sat Oct 27 at 7pm  Mariachi Herencia de Mexico

Sun Oct 28 at 3pm  It’s Magic!

Fri Nov 2 at 8pm  Jim Messina

Wed Nov 7 at 7:30pm  Nobuntu

Sun Nov 11 at 2pm and 6pm  Chris Perondi’s Stunt Dog Experience

Fri Nov 16 at 8pm Larry Gatlin and the Gatlin Brothers (Member Presale only until Sep 26)

Thu Dec 20 at 7:30pm  Doo Wop Project Christmas

Fri Dec 21 at 8pm  Irish Christmas in America

Sun Dec 23 at 5pm Reduced Shakespeare Company “The Ultimate Christmas Show (abridged)”

Mon Dec 31 at 8pm  New Year’s Eve Celebration at the Bankhead

Fri Jan 18 at 8pm Melissa Manchester

Mon Jan 21 at 7:30pm Branford Marsalis

Thu Jan 31 at 7:30pm Les Ballets Trockadero de Monte Carlo

Fri Feb 8 at 8pm  Russian National Ballet “Don Quixote”

Sun Feb 10 at 7:30pm  Robert Cray (Member Presale only until Sep 26)

Tue Feb 12 at 7:30pm  A Bowie Celebration

Thu Feb 14 at 7:30pm The Music of ABBA (Arrival from Sweden)

Fri Feb 15 at 8pm Second City “It’s Not You, It’s Me”

Sun Feb 17 at 3pm  The Choir of Man (Member Presale only until Sep 26)

Fri Feb 22 at 8:00pm  Big Bad Voodoo Daddy

Sun Feb 24 at 3pm  The Clairvoyants

Wed Feb 27 at 7:30pm  Natalie MacMaster & Donnell Leahy: Visions of Cape Breton and Beyond

Thu Feb 28 at 7:30pm  International Guitar Night 

Fri Mar 15 at 8pm Masters of Soul

Mon Mar 18 at 7:30pm  Don Felder

Thu Mar 21 at 7:30pm  Cirque Eloize “Saloon”

Fri Mar 22 at 8pm  Bumper Jacksons

Thu Mar 28 at 7:30pm  Will Ackerman: The Gathering 4 Guitars

Mon Apr 8 at 7:30pm  Mayumana “Currents”

Fri Apr 12 at 8pm  Late Nite Catechism “Will My Bunny Go To Heaven?”

Sun Apr 14 at 3pm Lonesome Traveler: The Concert with Peter Yarrow

Fri May 3 at 8pm  The Drifters

Sun May 4 at 5pm  The Capitol Steps

Sun May 12 at 3pm  San Francisco String Trio: The Sgt. Pepper Project

Tue May 14 at 7:30pm  Keb’ Mo’  (Member Presale only)

*Bankhead Presents shows only, excludes Gala, Resident Company and Rental shows

 

 

 

May 23
2

New Season – On Sale Now!

By | LVPAC News | 2 Comments

Artists (clockwise from upper left):  Russian National Ballet, BJ Thomas, Melissa Manchester, Branford Marsalis, Nobuntu, The Clairvoyants, Don Felder, The Chinese Acrobats, Tom Papa, Big Bad Voodoo Daddy.  

Tickets for some shows are already moving fast … Don’t miss this chance to get the best seats!

SEE THE ENTIRE LIST, THEN BUY YOUR TICKETS NOW!

MEMBERS receive 10% off single tickets or 15% off five or more shows.
Membership starts at just $125. Click HERE to become a member today!

The 2018-2019 season at the Bankhead Theater are now on sale! Located at the heart of downtown Livermore, the Bankhead will welcome a range of artists from all musical genres, as well as comedy, dance, theater, and other performing arts.

The season officially begins on Saturday evening, September 8, 2018 at the Brilliance at the Bankhead Gala featuring Grammy Hall of Fame legend BJ Thomas accompanied by the Livermore-Amador Symphony. The festive fundraising event begins on the plaza with a dinner reception and full bar, and continues inside before the concert with live and silent auctions.

Other notable highlights among the nearly 40 events scheduled through May 2019 are acclaimed artists such as jazz great Branford Marsalis, rock guitarist Don Felder, and singer/songwriters Jim Messina and Melissa Manchester, all of whom will make their first appearance in Livermore.

BJ Thomas on Sep 8

Natalie MacMaster and Donnell Leahy on Feb 27

Returning favorites include comedian Tom Papa, fiddle master Natalie MacMaster, and Big Bad Voodoo Daddy with their infectious feel-good swing sound. Music of all genres as well as comedy, theater and dance are well represented, including a first visit to the Bankhead by renowned all-male comic ballet company Les Ballets Trockadero de Monte Carlo.

 

Les Ballets Trockadero de Monte Carlo on Jan 31

In addition, the Bankhead will take the opportunity this season to present some excitingly different performances including The Clairvoyants, whose mind-blowing, mind-reading talents stunned the audience on “America’s Got Talent” in 2016, Cirque Éloize “Saloon”, a musical acrobatic adventure of the wild, wild West, and the visually-spectacular combination of dance moves, compelling rhythms, and lighting effects that tell the story of “Currents” by Mayumana. Chicago’s remarkable Mariachi Herencia de Mexico, the first youth mariachi band ever nominated for a Latin Grammy, will appear in October on their first national tour.

Mariachi Herencia de Mexico on Oct 27

Cirque Eloize “Saloon” on Mar 21

Executive Director Scott Kenison emphasized Livermore Valley Performing Arts Center’s commitment to making entertainment accessible to all audiences. Starting this summer and extending through the upcoming season, a new $20 seating level has been introduced for every single Bankhead Presents show. While quantities are limited, Kenison hopes the opportunity to enjoy great artists at an affordable price will allow everyone in the community to be touched by the performing arts. Tickets also priced at $20 for students and active military personnel are available year round.

Family-friendly events bring the arts to all ages from the dazzlingly athletic feats of The New Chinese Acrobats to Chris Perondi’s Stunt Dog Experience, the original “all-dogs, all-fun” show. Family Films, “E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial,” “The Princess Bride,” and “Honey, I Shrunk the Kids,” are being screened at the Bankhead this summer, and the popular Classic Film Musicals, complete with newsreel and cartoons of the era, will return in the fall with “On The Town,” “Showboat” and “Meet Me in St. Louis.”

The Bankhead has established itself as a popular venue for comedy and a number of events will keep audiences laughing. This season a comic approach to nearly every holiday is offered from The Reduced Shakespeare Company’s “The Ultimate Christmas Show (abridged),” and Second City’s Valentine-themed “It’s Not You, It’s Me,” to Late Nite Catechism’s “Will My Bunny Go To Heaven?”  Comedy and drama will merge in a single performance of L.A. Theatre Works’ powerful production of “Steel Magnolias” in October.

In addition to Bankhead Presents shows, the Resident Companies of the Bankhead – Del Valle Fine Arts, Livermore-Amador Symphony, Livermore Valley Opera, Pacific Chamber Orchestra, Rae Dorough Speakers Series, Tri-Valley Repertory Theatre, and Valley Dance Theatre – offer nearly 50 performances and events of their own during the season.

The 2018-2019 Season at the Bankhead opens at the end of the previously announced Summer Series which features more than a dozen shows including country music legend Lee Greenwood, blues-rock band Indigenous with Chris Duarte, and the return of western swing greats Asleep at the Wheel.

Be sure to check out the entire 2018-2019 Season list! Or flip through the online brochure.

The more the merrier!  With such a great line-up,
you’ll want to join us at the Bankhead often.
Buy tickets for any FIVE shows
at the same time and receive a 10% discount.*

 * Members receive a 15% discount on five or more shows. If you’re a member login here. If you’re not a member, consider joining today — there’s never been a better time!   In addition to supporting the arts, you’ll be among the first to hear about any new shows and you’ll receive 10% off single tickets for Bankhead Presents shows all year (Resident Company and Rental Company shows are not eligible.) Other benefits are available at higher levels. New members under the age of 35 can join at the new 35MM level for just $50.

 

Apr 30
0

Read About Our Stars!

By | LVPAC News | No Comments

You won’t want to miss the fun at Dancing with the Tri-Valley Stars on May 12! After one week of prep and practice, six local luminaries will join professional dancers from the Utah Ballroom Dance Company to strut their stuff in pursuit of winning the mirrorball trophy.  Read about the stars in Carol Graham’s excellent overview in The Independent Magazine.  You’ll find out why NBC Sports Anchor Dave Lewis won’t be doing any break dancing but jumped at the chance to compete with the others in the event:

“This event is the perfect balance between fun and a true competition,”
Lewis adds. “The experience represents living a more adventurous life —
to try new things and take a chance. Let’s dance!”

Of course, it could be because he’s just up for the challenge of besting friend and fellow middle school basketball coach, realtor Mony Nop. You’ll also find out why Juliette Lewis agreed to join in (hint … her kids are behind her all the way!), as well as what motivates radio personality, Faith Alpher, and our two city council members Bob Carling (Livermore) and Karla Brown (Pleasanton.) Whether they’re planning to rely on physical skills in other arenas, dance lessons, or sheer confidence, they’re all enthusiastic if a little nervous too.

VOTE FOR THE WINNER. You’ll play a part too! Choose your favorite and while the votes are tallied and the judges consult, enjoy a performance of spectacular ballroom dance by the Utah Ballroom Dance Company. Proceeds from the event will benefit discounted student tickets all year round at the Bankhead. So, as executive director Scott Kenison told Carol.

“Come out to enjoy a fun evening and support our stars. There are no losers;
everyone who puts on their dancing shoes is a winner!”

DON’T MISS THE FUN!

Download and read the whole article Dancing with Tri-Valley Stars_May 2018
Check out the Stars bios HERE.
And be sure to BUY TICKETS for the show!

 

Apr 20
1

NEW SHOWS JUST ADDED!

By | LVPAC News | No Comments

(Shown: Better Than Ezra, Lee Greenwood, and Ray Benson of Asleep at the Wheel)

TICKETS ON SALE NOW!

Now there’s twice as much to enjoy at the Bankhead this summer!
See the full list HERE

 

Six new shows including a community concert have been added to the Bankhead Presents line-up from June through August.  As a red, white and blue close to Independence Week, country music legend Lee Greenwood will take the stage on July 6 with songs such as his patriotic hit “God Bless the U.S.A.” as well as “I.O.U.,” “Dixie Road” and “Going, Going, Gone.”

The American music theme runs through the rest of the summer with the folk music of New Christy Minstrels on July 27 when they return to celebrate the 85th birthday of founder Randy Sparks.  The irresistible Western swing sound of Asleep at the Wheel comes back to the Bankhead on August 20.  We know both bands have a loyal local following here in Livermore! Joining the line up will be Montreal-based artistic collective Cirquantique with their dazzling cabaret burlesque show “Bang! Bang!” and popular 1980s alt-rock band Better Than Ezra making their first appearance at the Bankhead.

This August, the Bankhead will also host a community concert with all seats $20: “Psychedelic Summer” will feature local favorite rock band LunaFish, joined on stage by guest artists and friends, they’ll entertain audiences with everyone’s favorite tunes from the sixties and seventies — Janis Joplin, Jimi Hendrix, Jefferson Airplane and more!

SEE the full summer line up and buy previously announced shows, which include pop icon Rita Coolidge, singer/songwriter Shawn Colvin, Rockapella touring with The Company Men, blues-rock band Indigenous with Chris Duarte, and more.

For the first time, every show in the Bankhead Presents series has a limited quantity of seats priced at just $20 each. Students and active military personnel are eligible for discounted tickets all year long. Livermore Valley Performing Arts Center strives to make the arts accessible for all ages. In addition to live music and comedy this summer, the new Family Fun Film Series will include “E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial” (June 20), “The Princess Bride” (July 25), and “Honey, I Shrunk the Kids” (August 15). Screened on Wednesday evenings at 7:00 pm, admission for the family films is just $5 each!

ALL TICKETS ON SALE NOW!

Become a member now and you’ll hear about new shows first,
receive a 10% discount all year long, and other member benefits. 

Apr 09
0

Interview: Rita Coolidge

By | LVPAC News | No Comments

In a wide ranging interview with writer Lou Fancher at the East Bay Times, pop icon Rita Coolidge talks about her early days in the music industry when men held all the power and the impact that had on women, how she see things changing now, and why it matters. She also discusses the many people who have had an influence on her life and her music — from her grandmother and her Cherokee heritage, to fellow musicians and leaders of the modern day blues era.

Coolidge has put her whole heart into her recently released album “Safe in the Arms of Love” She co-wrote three of the 12 songs on the album and the entire album reflects the pain, uplifting recovery and strength she has found in her life.

“It’s about the wonderful possibilities we have to experience love, embrace the tragedies, to keep going. The record is about that joy.
I want for women and men to realize love is always around, you just have to open your eyes and heart.”

Read the whole article HERE and then buy tickets to see Rita Coolidge in the intimate 500 seat Bankhead Theater. For more about Rita, visit the event page.

RITA COOLIDGE

Saturday, July 7 at 8pm

BUY TICKETS NOW!

Mar 24
0

Tri-Valley Star Watch!

By | LVPAC News | No Comments

East Bay Times profiled two of our Tri-Valley Stars as they get ready for the event.  Read about what Dave Lewis and Juliette Goodrich are (and are not) doing in the six weeks leading up ot the show on May 12th HERE.

Paired with a professional dancer from the Utah Ballroom Dance Company, each of the six local luminaries will practice for a week with their partners then take the stage to show off their talent and showmanship.

Who will win?  A city council member? A radio personality? A real estate agent? A former police office? An actor or actress? A star reporter? The author of a children’s book?  YOU DECIDE … The audience will join the panel of judges to choose the winner, so don’t miss this opportunity to be in on the voting and award the glittering prize.

Want to find out who will be on stage?  CLICK HERE TO SEE THE CAST and then BUY YOUR TICKETS NOW.  You won’t want to miss out on all the fun!

Upcoming Events

Wed 19

On The Town (1949)

Wed, September 19 @ 7:00 pm
Bankhead Theater
Organizer: Livermore Valley Performing Arts Center
925.373.6800
Fri 21

San Francisco Comedy Competition

Fri, September 21 @ 8:00 pm
Bankhead Theater
Fri 21

The Last Romance

Fri, September 21 @ 8:00 pm
Bothwell Arts Center
Organizer: Encore Players
Sat 22

The Art of Drama

Sat, September 22 @ 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Bankhead Theater
Organizer: Livermore Valley Performing Arts Center
925.373.6800
Sat 22

The Last Romance

Sat, September 22 @ 2:00 pm
Bothwell Arts Center
Organizer: Encore Players

View More…

Call 925.373.6800 or email websales@livermoreperformingarts.org for tickets and information